Mosquitoes collected from a trap in Mitchell have tested positive for West Nile Virus, the Perth District Health Unit says.
The West Nile Virus is mainly transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, public health officials say.
“Over the past few weeks, West Nile virus activity has been on the rise across Ontario, so it’s not surprising to see positive mosquito pools in Perth County,” says Dale Lyttle, Senior Public Health Inspector.
Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms at all, or they have flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and fatigue.
The health unit says the risk of severe illness increases with age, as well as those individuals that have compromised immune systems.
It suggests the following protective measures:
• Wearing protective, light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks
• Using insect repellent containing DEET and follow the label directions
• Staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn)
• Ensuring that all door and window screens are tight and free of any holes
